Calling a piece of short fiction a "tale" removes it at least slightly from the realm of mundane works and days, as it evokes the world of the folk tale, the wonder tale, and the long-ago teller of tales.
The term "tale" suggests a sense of magic and storytelling that elevates short fiction beyond ordinary life experiences. It conjures the essence of folk tales and legends, inviting readers into a realm filled with wonder and imagination. By using this designation, authors can signal that their narrative may contain deeper meanings and timeless themes, reminiscent of the ages-old tradition of storytelling.
Margaret Atwood’s "Stone Mattress: Nine Tales" encapsulates this idea by...
